The Spa industry is full of trends and new services to try. It is a market that has a lot of scope for experimenting with the existing concepts and techniques. Brands have started coming out of shells of old ways of running spa businesses and are exploring the world of possibilities that wait ahead of them. Hotel spas are also introducing new themes and cultures from other countries in order to bring something different to the table other than just the old methods of spa massages. In a conversation with Chi- The Spa at Shangri-La for our Indian Salon and Wellness Yearbook 2017, the brand tells us what’s the best in their spa, the services on offer and what the customers can look forward to at their spa.
Why CHI?
The word ‘chi’ denotes the universal life force in our body that governs well-being and personal vitality. It is simply the air we breathe, the life that creates energy within us- also known as Prana or ki or qi. At the Shangri-La’s own signature spa, the first in the country under the hotel and resort’s banner, the Chinese philosophy inspired tradition offers a place for personal peace and enchantment.
What’s on Offer?
The signature massage therapies include Aroma Vitality that uses elements of Swedish massage, shiatsu and reflexology. This restores a renewed sense of calm and balance in the mind, body and soul. CHI Balance is a gentle yet effective palm pressure massage technique that focuses on balance, clarity and inner peace using acupressure and coordinated movements that originated in Taichi. CHI Hot Stone Massage makes use of thermotherapy involving gliding massage strokes that ease muscle and restores body's energy and vitality. Frequent and tired travellers get immediate relief through the CHI Jet Lag Rescue Release and CHI Foot Reflexology specially designed to relax muscle tension in target areas. This therapy also promotes good sleep with energy restored.
Back to age-old basics
The Shangri-La thought is to go back to the same mysticism of ancient China married with healing traditions through the various treatments. CHI The Spa has been built on the philosophy of bringing in a balance between the mind and the soul through the harmony of ancient traditions, therapeutic disciplines and Asian practices that will together nurture, rebalance and renew the inner spirit. India being home to Ayurveda, one of the most effective therapies brings the focus back to its origins, especially to the globetrotter. CHI The Spa has encased this ‘coming back to the roots’ beautifully, by presenting curated therapies that combine the healing philosophies of both the worlds. CHI The Spa enjoys a diverse yet loyal clientele. Open to residents and walk-ins alike, its timings suit the late riser and the late traveller as well.
About the owner
Brainchild of the urbane Robert Kuok, Hong Kong-headquartered luxury hotel group owner of Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts is considered a shrewd and adaptable Chinese businessman worldwide. It was only in 1971 that Kuok ventured into real estate and started the brand name Shangri-La. Till date, Robert Kuok is known to be Malaysia's richest person. The Chinese-Malaysian tycoon's Kuok Group according to Forbes magazine controls an empire that includes the high-end hotel chain Shangri-La, Kerry Properties and commodities trader Wilmar. Kuok’s selections and additions to his multiple hotel and resort properties are based on a selection of people who can present heartfelt comfort with a heart of humility
